The latest in rural communications is again high on the agenda; several specialists will exhibit, including Colvins and Gisborne Net.
Expo director Dave Martin says communication on farms needs to be as “real time as possible” to enable more timely and accurate decisionmaking.
“The old saying ‘knowledge is power’ is more relevant today than ever because of the speed at which modern business operates,” he says. “Being remote no longer need be a barrier to operating effectively in the modern farming business environment.
“Increasing broadband speeds and cellphone coverage, combined with online sale reports, cloud recording and banking and financial programs allow many farmers to have the same instant access to decisionmaking tools as if they were in an urban business environment.”
Award-winning Gisborne radio communications company Colvins is attending the expo for the second time. Manager Scott McSloy says, “the biggest development in radio communication in recent times has been the advancement of the digital radio platform”.
“This provides better voice clarity and allows packets of data to be sent over the network.”
Colvins have installed at least 30 onfarm communication systems over the past few years in the East Coast region.
“Most of these use solar-powered repeaters we have specifically developed for the purpose,” McSloy says. “Being solar-powered allows the repeater to be placed at a convenient location where the most property coverage is achieved.”
Colvins will display and demonstrate this equipment and it will have portable demonstration repeaters available for onfarm trials.
Gisborne Net’s Ronald Brice says they will be at the expo to discuss the extent of their current coverage and where they expect to grow in the Wairoa, Hawke’s Bay and Gisborne regions.
“We’re keen to talk to people living in the region about coverage and what customers expect when it comes to their internet requirements,” Brice says. “If there are people out there without coverage, we would like to know, and to find out how best to provide that coverage.”
The company, which recently got a Rural Broadband Initiative grant, brought the first internet service to Gisborne in 1995. They use a land-based microwave radio network to deliver fast, low cost internet in Gisborne, the East Coast and Wairoa.
Brice says getting more technology on the farm and more communications is always going to help with safety.
The East Coast Farming Expo is industry-specific – sheep and beef farming businesses ranging from extensive hill country to intensive flat operations.
Agricultural business teams including husband/wife partnerships, managers, stock managers, shepherds, business partners, accountants and financial advisors can talk with expo exhibitors about ways to farm smarter. Farmers and landowners can explore new ideas and have their questions answered by experts.
“If you are a Hawke’s Bay or East Coast farmer wanting to keep your business moving, or an agricultural innovator wanting to spread your message, this event is perfect,” says Martin.
The popular Evening Muster takes place on April 11, where attendees and exhibitors can socialise and hear keynote speakers, the award-wining South Island farmers Richard and Anabelle Subtil.
